Aunt of Woman Murdered in Myrtle Beach Shooting Shares Emotional Story at DNC: ‘I’m Not Giving Up’

Bringing Attention to Gun Violence on the National Stage

A woman born and raised in Easley made the audience and viewers nationwide sit up and pay attention at the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago. Melody McFadden, who took the stage alongside other speakers addressing the topic of gun violence, revisited the haunting story of the tragic killing of her 22-year-old niece, Sandy Patrice Geddis Barnwell, in Myrtle Beach on May 14, 2014.

Sandy, along with her friends, Jamie Willis, 28, and Devonte Dantzler, 21, were enjoying the Memorial Day weekend at the Bermuda Sands Motel when tragedy struck. The bullets that snuffed out their young lives have altered the course of many others. Though ten years have passed, Sandy’s murder remains a puzzle unsolved, but Melody McFadden insists, in her words, “I’m not giving up.”

Putting a Face to the Tragedy of Gun Violence and Unresolved Crimes

McFadden was on stage with other individuals whose lives have been shattered by gun violence, including U.S. Rep. Lucy McBath from Georgia, a mother mourning the loss of her son to gun violence; Kim Rubio, parent of a victim of the Uvalde Elementary School shooting; and Abbey Clements, an ex-educator from Sandy Hook Elementary School. Joining them was Edgar Vilchez, an eyewitness to a horrifying drive-by shooting incident in 2022.

In a response to McFadden’s passionate plea for justice, Myrtle Beach law enforcement reassured the public and the bereaved family that they have not given up either. Reportedly, Myrtle Beach Cold Case Unit is actively working on the decade-old case.

City Comment on the Issues

Meredith Denari, Director of Public Information for Myrtle Beach, reacted to McFadden’s speech, voicing genuine concern for the victim’s family. She emphasized the lingering grief that no family should have to live with. Despite the cold case casting a shadow, she highlighted Melody’s brave decision to address it on a national platform, urging anyone with information to contact the Myrtle Beach Police Department.

Denari also defended the reputation of the city, acknowledging that while gun violence is a nationwide problem, Myrtle Beach continues to be a safe destination that attracts millions of visitors annually, and one that families love returning to year after year.

‘I’m not giving up’

Melody McFadden’s determined message resonates with thousands across the country. Her untiring pursuits for justice and commitment to solving her niece’s murder case have instilled hope. Despite the tragic loss and ten years of unsuccessful resolution, McFadden’s unwavering resilience stands testament to the enduring strength of families touched by gun violence.